A leisurely ten-min stroll takes ya to the pedestrian-friendly Piazza Santo Stefano.

Just opposite the railway station, and an easy stroll to Bologna's top must-visit sites.

A less than 10-min stroll will get you to the Bologna Museum of Modern Art (MAMbo), which focuses on art from WWII to the present.

Free WiFi keeps ya connected.

Well-placed for seeing Verona’s biggies like the 13th-century Castello Scaligero and Lake Garda. Go forth and conquer.

Former home of nobility, transformed to a hotel back in 1945 and flourishing in its new identity ever since. (5-min walk to the historic centre!)

Tucked away in the Dorsoduro district – the ‘real’ Venice, full of shops, restos and artisan boutiques – plus the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Don’t look now, but you’re nine stories up, listening to music and sipping a champagne cocktail. Byblos Sky Terrace also comes with a spectacular view.

Lobby is airy and open, with all-white seating and palmy plants. Crisp rooms (also done up in whites), rock wood floors and free WiFi.

Nestled on the hills just outside the city and only a 10-min drive from the centre.

Steps from the park (views from the restaurant terrace!), and the city’s best shopping streets. Win-win.

Just built, and you can almost still catch a whiff of that new-car smell.

Sophisticated hotel ideally situated steps from the railway station, getting you to the ancient city within minutes.

Near busses, planes, trains and automobiles (right off the A14) for easy all-mode access.